Boston Whaler’s Dauntless series has built an enviable reputation based on versatility. Yet the new 240 Dauntless Pro puts a greater emphasis on fishing than any of its other five sister ships.
This is the only Dauntless model to feature an elevated second station, and it is standard. Whaler engineered a new center console that melds seamlessly with the tower frame. Steps on the port side offer an easy ascent, and a SeaDek pad atop the console provides cushioned nonskid footing. This 2018 model helps celebrate the company’s 60th anniversary.
The 240 Dauntless Pro is essentially a bay boat with an expansive forward casting platform that measures 86 inches long by 65 inches wide. Our test boat was equipped with the optional jack plate, trolling motor and Power-Pole shallow-water anchor.
The aft deck dispenses with the aft ridge found on the regular 240, effectively expanding the platform. Trays on both sides provide places to stash loose tackle items. Seat cushions and backrests can fit on the aft deck to create a pair of seats. A 38-gallon livewell also resides under the aft deck. We found a second livewell under the forward console seat. There’s a huge central locker under the foredeck, and this is flanked by two equally cavernous lockers.
The 240 Dauntless Pro rides on a 24-foot-8-inch unsinkable hull, which sliced smoothly through the 1- to 2-foot rollers. Handling proved precise. With four adult males, 38 gallons of water in the stern livewell, and 80 gallons of fuel on board, the Mercury 350 Verado outboard pushed the 240 Dauntless Pro to a top speed of 48 mph at 6,200 rpm. At each helm station, the Verado power steering made turning fingertip-easy.
An optional flush-mounted Raymarine 7-inch Axiom Pro offered access to sonar and chart plotting in the tower, while an optional flush-mounted 9-inch Axiom Pro and a pair of Merc SmartCraft multifunction gauges were installed at the lower helm. The helm seat features two flip-up bolsters and a foldout footrest. A Yeti Tundra 65 cooler stows underneath.
Inside the console, accessible from a companionway on the starboard-side, is a step-down head compartment with a port light and plenty of room for a portable marine toilet.
High Points
* Tower station is great for spotting fish from afar and navigating tricky shallows.
* Expansive, stable aft and fore decks are ideal for fishing. The forward deck can be converted to a pair of loungers.
* Two livewells allow you to carry plenty of live bait.
Price: $113,433 (base with Mercury 225 Verado)
How We Tested
Engine: Mercury 350 Verado
Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 14 1/4″ x 18″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.75:1
Fuel Load: 80 gal.
Crew Weight: 800 lb.
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